Robert G. Elliott

Robert Elliot was executioner for some of the most sensational murderers in American history. His work recounts more about the criminals and their crimes than it does about his own calling and profession. Elliot remains self-effacing, preferring to dwell upon the criminals rater than upon his role as executioner. While this may have been wise in a general sense, as a look into the world of the executioner, it is disappointing.

Elliott's book is original and interesting detail regarding the construction and brief career of the Confederate ironclad Albemarle. The story really suffers in the telling. Elliot's prose is simply not clear or inspiring.